Mark your calendars: Join us for the 10th annual Great Gravel Pack-In

Volunteers, horses, and mules pack in gravel to repair trails in Capitol State Forest at the Great Gravel Pack-In in 2009. Photo: DNR/Randy Warnock.

This year marks the 10th annual Great Gravel Pack-In, which draws volunteers from many recreation groups, including horseback riders, ORV riders, mountain bikers, and hikers to give back and care for Capitol State Forest trails.

Join DNR and partners from the Back Country Horsemen of Washington, Washington ATV Association, and Evergreen Sportsmen’s Club to help care for Capitol State Forest trails Saturday, March 28.

The Back Country Horsemen of Washington first started the event in 2005 as a way to train and showcase their animals’ abilities.

Volunteer efforts from ATV riders followed, and what started as an 18-person party has grown to an average of 150 people annually.

With the combined efforts from hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers and ATV riders, about 12 miles of trail have been graveled in this event’s 10-year history.

Ed Haefliger, one of the founders of the of the Great Gravel Pack-In announces the tasks to the equestrian group. Photo: Diana Lofflin